We brought in the raw datasets provided and first ensured that all column names referring to the same variables were consistent across the three databases, using the provided codebook as a reference. Standardizing these names improved both the efficiency of subsequent analyses and the clarity of the data dictionary developed later in this report.
To facilitate merging, we added a county field to the Los Angeles County database so that both datasets share the same set of columns, allowing them to be joined or appended to create a single statewide morbidity dataset for later analyses.
After completing these adjustments — renaming columns in the Los Angeles County database and adding the county field — the remaining tasks involve reconciling the age category and race/ethnicity variable, and standardizing how the timing of infection is identified using MMWR weeks (see Figure 1 below).
